That's Why We Give

That’s Why We Give

Money is often the last thing we associate with spirituality. We hold it in our wallets, spend it on everyday needs, and rarely connect it to our faith journey. Yet, the Bible consistently shows that money is deeply spiritual—and how we handle it reflects our relationship with God.

Is Money Really a Spiritual Matter?

Money isn't just tangible currency—it's spiritual and eternal. While specific currencies like the US Dollar or Japanese Yen may not last forever, the concept of money and how we steward it has eternal implications.

The Bible repeatedly connects our spirituality to our finances. In Luke 3, when crowds asked John the Baptist what they should do to show their repentance, his answer was surprising:

"If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry."

When tax collectors asked the same question, he told them: "Collect no more taxes than the government requires."

To soldiers, he said: "Don't extort money and be content with your pay."

Notice the pattern? People asked about spiritual matters—repentance and salvation—and John responded with financial direction. This reveals a profound truth: how we handle money directly connects to our spiritual condition.

How Much Did Jesus Talk About Money?

Jesus spoke about money in 15% of his teachings—more than he talked about heaven and hell combined. This emphasis shows just how important our financial decisions are to our spiritual lives.

In one powerful example, Jesus tied a man's salvation directly to his financial decisions. When Zacchaeus declared he would give half his wealth to the poor and repay anyone he had cheated four times over, Jesus responded: "Salvation has come to this home today."

Money issues also impact our relationships. Studies show that 90% of marriage counseling involves financial problems, and 90% of divorces cite money as a significant factor. Our approach to finances affects every area of our lives.

Can We Take Our Money to Heaven?

The Bible is clear: we cannot take our wealth with us when we die, but we can send it ahead.

When John D. Rockefeller died, someone asked his accountant how much he left behind. The wise response: "He left all of it." No matter how wealthy we become, we leave everything behind at death.

Jesus taught in Matthew 6: "Don't store up treasures here on earth where moth and rust will eat them and destroy them and where thieves will break through and steal." He wasn't suggesting this might happen—he was stating it as inevitable. Whether through market crashes, inflation, or death, earthly wealth eventually disappears.

Instead, Jesus instructs: "Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy and thieves cannot break through and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

What Happens When We Invest in God's Kingdom?

When we give generously, three important things happen:

1. We Change Heaven

Luke 16:9 teaches: "Use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends. Then when your possessions are gone, your friends will welcome you to an eternal home."

When we invest in ministry—whether children's programs, student outreach, or community service—we're making heaven more crowded. Our giving helps others find their way to God, and someday they'll welcome us when we arrive.

2. We Receive Rewards

Jesus promised in Matthew 10:42: "If you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded."

Heaven keeps an incredibly accurate account of everything we've done to bless others. Every penny given, every moment volunteered, every effort made—nothing goes unnoticed by God.

In Philippians 4:17, Paul writes: "Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account." Paul wanted believers to give not for his benefit, but because he knew God would reward their generosity.

3. We Experience Joy

Proverbs 11:25 tells us: "The generous will prosper, and those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed."

Paul adds in 2 Corinthians 9:7: "You must each decide in your heart how much to give. Don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure, for God loves a person who gives cheerfully."

While God loves everyone equally, he delights in and favors those who give with joy. When we develop a heart that loves giving, God responds with blessing and favor.

Life Application

Ask yourself this important question: How does my use of God's money reflect my heart toward Him?

Remember, it's not really "our" money—it's God's money that we're managing. Everything belongs to Him, and we're simply stewards of what He's entrusted to us.

Consider these reflection questions:

·      Am I being generous with God's resources, or am I stingy?

·      Am I using money in ways that bring light into my life and others' lives?

·      Does my spending reflect my spiritual priorities?

·      What one change could I make this week to better align my finances with God's purposes?

This week, take a practical step toward financial faithfulness. Whether it's beginning to tithe, increasing your giving, supporting a ministry, or helping someone in need, let your use of money reflect a heart that recognizes its spiritual nature.

When we understand that money is spiritual, we'll handle it differently—and experience the joy, rewards, and eternal impact that come from generous living.